Twiggy

Born and raised in a working-class family in northwest London, Lesley Lawson aka “Twiggy” probably did not foresee that by the young age of 17 she would become a household name of significant popularity around the world. In this eponymous documentary, director Sadie Frost attempts to tell Twiggy’s story, delving into how she rocketed into stardom and became the so-called “face of 1966”, as well as the variety of vocations she explored following her modelling success.

Even those not particularly plugged into the fashion scene will recognise Twiggy by her appearance. When she launched into modelling, Twiggy was relatively short for the average model, with a very petite frame, big, doleful eyes and long eyelashes, a pixie haircut and a bright smile. Through interviews with industry professionals and experts, the documentary explains how Twiggy provided the fashion world with a desperately needed revamp. She debuted during a cultural revolution in the UK bringing her unique look and fresh styling. She was youth personified and so quickly became an emblem of the Swinging Sixties. We also learn about her relationship with her former boyfriend-slash-manager Justin de Villeneuve, who accompanied Twiggy around the world and credits himself with fostering her success (Villeneuve is also the photographer behind the iconic album cover, which features Twiggy, for David Bowie’s 1973 album Pin Ups). Although the film does briefly outline the level of success Twiggy experienced in quick succession, little consideration or examination is given to how such significant fame impacted her emotionally, which was a missed opportunity to allow the audience to connect with the star.

Despite being most famously known for modelling, posing was only the start, and Twiggy proved to be a multifaceted woman of many talents, and the documentary quickly charts the numerous professions she pursued after retiring from modelling. From designing clothes and starring in feature films and on Broadway, to releasing music and hosting her own television series; Twiggy has certainly lived a varied life. Given how gifted she is, it feels quite disappointing that her story wasn’t better captured. The editing is fractured, jumping through the various chapters of Twiggy’s life in an unfocused and limited way. Whilst we do get interviews with Twiggy’s close family and friends, some of the celebrity contributions felt impersonal and inauthentic as their connection to her wasn’t supported by anecdotes or visual evidence.

Today’s fashion shows a timeless appreciation of vintage styling and designs, and as a modelling icon, Twiggy will remain a part of the fashion zeitgeist. Unfortunately, with this documentary, we’re left with the feeling that Twiggy could’ve been told in a more engaging and innovative manner to reflect the character of its eponymous star. Even though Twiggy’s legacy may not have been ideally commemorated in this film about her life, she will forever be one of the “IT” girls of fashion.

Sunny Morgan

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